KCC_ KC Magazine October 2022

SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SALE NOW! THE BEST THEATER FOR THE BEST PRICE.

Jeff Award Winner for Best Large Musical three years in a row, Paramount Theatre in Downtown Aurora offers the best in Broadway. Visit ParamountAurora.com or call 630.896.6666.

Thanks to our Broadway Series sponsors:

Is thereanywhereaswonderful as a frontporch in October?

Whetherthere to pass out Halloweencandy to costumedtrick-or-treaters or just to relax over acup of coffee,the porchisone of my favorite places to be in earlyfall This time of year is perfectfor reading(don’tforget ahoodie or blanket!), catchingupwitha neighbor andsaying“seeyou next season ” to thehummingbirds,who will soonmake theirjourney south.

No matter itsappearance, theporchisa lovely outdoorhaven, particularly in late spring andearly fall.But dressingupyour frontporchto fitthe season? That only takes your degreeofcomfort andenjoyment to thenextlevel. Forideas on easy ways to decorate, seeDiane KriegerSpivak’sstory on P. 22.

This issueof Kane County Magazine is filled with local businessesthatprovide an arrayofhomeservices —everythingfrom buying ahouse to customizingmudrooms to replacingyourgarage floor. Although I’m nota homeownermyself(yet!), Ican assure

Editorʼ s NOTE Hannah Hoffmeister,Editor

youthismonth’s magazinethoroughly covers localoptions forrenovations,decor andmore.Particularlystrikingare the visualsfor many of thefeatures; I’mdrawn to thevibrant mudrooms on P. 8and the clean, cozyambianceofLittleRed Barn Door onP.21.

Lastly,don't forgettoreadthe story on P. 36 about localNative Americanhistory.Aswe honorIndigenousPeoples Dayonthe 10th of this month, consider settingaside some time to learnabout ourpast. Ican promise you’ll discover somethingnew

Thankyou forreading, andsoak up that porchtimethis month!

on the COVER

This Geneva home's stunning front porch got afall makeoverfrom Wasco Nursery! Home constructed by Havlicek Builders Read more on P. 22. Photo by DrewPertl, DrewPertl Fine Art Photography.

Next month: Forthe second year we celebrate the winners of Kane County’sFinest! See what youpickedfor your favorite spots to dine,shop and more

PUBLISHER

Kane County Chronicle& NorthwestHerald Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com

EDITOR

Hannah Hoffmeister 630-427-6263 hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com

DESIGNER

AllisonLaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com

LOCALSALES MANAGER

Kane County Chronicle& NichePublishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com

CORRESPONDENTS

VickiMartinkaPetersen, MelissaRubalcaba Riske, DianeKrieger Spivak,LouiseTreeny, ChrisWalkerand Kelley White.

This magazine is available by subscription for$24 ayear.Ifyou would like each month’s edition mailed to your home,send your request with payment information to ShawMedia,7717 S. Route31, Crystal Lake,IL60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

PublishedbyShawMedia 7717 S. Route31, Crystal Lake,IL60014

What'sINSIDE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

8 OPTIMIZE YOUR MUDROOM

These 3 trendy spaces combine function and flair

11 WELCOMING & HOMEY

The Cottage Geneva offers vintage and new items to achieve your cozy cottagecore vision

12 ‘CUSTOMER SERVICE IS EVERYTHING’

Find your dream home with Diane Anderson and her team of Realtors

14 FALLING FOR FALL

Wasco Nursery’s favorite shrubs and trees for great autumn hues

16 REVELRY 675’S RIVERFRONT SCENE

A classy black, white and gold color scheme lends itself to elegant events

19 SECOND NATURE

An appreciation for the outdoors comes naturally for Jean Larson and her shop, the Winding Deerpath

21 FASHIONABLE FARMHOUSE FINDS

Little Red Barn Door expands to 1,800 square feet of curated home decor on Third Street

22 READY, SET, FALL

Decorate your front porch with confetti mums, cornstalks and vintage items

25 SLEEK FLOORS & MORE

Garage Experts of Kane County specializes in epoxy floor coatings and clean, organized garages

26 SHOPPING WITH PURPOSE

“Save a forest, starve a landfill” with repurposed furnishings at The Vintage Marketplace Co DINING & ENTERTAINING

28 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT

Digestive expert Dr. Tarun Mullick enjoys Japanese cuisine at Shima’s Sushi

30 BEAR-Y TASTY FOOD TRUCK

Find cozy treats at Ferdie’s Cabin + 8 others in the Kane County area

ART & FASHION

34 ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Jeremy Foy allows “an opportunity of chance” to complete his ceramics

FAMILY IN FOCUS

36 A NEW LOOK AT THE PAST

Local museum looks into the history of Native American tribes in this part of Illinois

38 NEW FRIENDS & EVENTS TO ATTEND

Discover a home away from home at the Adult Activity Center

BUSINESS & CIVIC

40 KEEP CALM

Tom McCartney on carrying on through the bear market

42 HERE TO HELP LivingWell Cancer Resource Center provides free, necessary services to cancer patients and their families

43 STILL SPARKLING ON STATE STREET

State Street Jewelers marks 35 years, long-term commitment to Tri-Cities and fine jewelry

OUT & ABOUT

44 NIGHTMARE ON CHICAGO STREET

The Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is ready for the return of an Elgin signature event

46 CALENDAR

From scarecrows to trick-or-treating, here’s what’s happening in Kane County

“The main design focus for a mudroom is no doubt function, but we love when we can combine practical storage with clean and beautiful aesthetics,” says Shannon Peppeard, owner of Peppeard Design in St Charles. One way to achieve this look is by mixing both open and closed storage. You can add drawers and cabinets for seasonal clothing mixed with open cubbies and wall hooks for everyday grab and-go items like jackets and backpacks. Mudroom designed by Peppeard Design, photo taken by Margaret Rajic.

Optimize YOUR MUDR

These 3 trendy spaces combine function and flair

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

Photos provided by Kaitlyn Jane Miller Interior Design, Peppeard Design (taken by Margaret Rajic) and Lifestyle Design

With the changing seasons comes the return of coats, umbrellas and eventually snow boots Extra clothing and equipment could overtake the house, but fear not: There is hope to keep these items corralled in one spot.

“Mudrooms are an amazing way to keep unwanted clutter and dirt out of your home,” says Kaitlyn Miller, owner of Kaitlyn Jane Miller Interior Design in Geneva. If yours could use a little TLC, check out these tips from local designers on ways to create an updated and organized mudroom.

“The awkward shape of this mudroom was a challenge,” notes Bobbi Alderfer, owner of Lifestyle Design in Geneva. To make the most of this space, they took advantage of an angled wall, which provided enough space to add a small bench seat a great spot for putting on shoes. Creative wallpaper brings the elements of the outside into the home. Photo provided by Lifestyle Design.

OOM

Shelving and cabinetry are great options to provide extra storage in your mudroom. Add some cubbies or baskets to corral shoes, hats, gloves or anything else you want out of the way. For an affordable alternative to built-in shelves and lockers, Miller recommends using a bench. “Not only are they functional as a seating area, but you can also place baskets or bins underneath for storage. Add a row of coat hooks above the bench to hang coats and backpacks, and voila! You have a completed look,” she says. Photo provided by Kaitlyn Jane Miller Interior Design.

WELCOMING LCOMING &Homey

TheCottage

By LouiseTreeny Photos by Kelly Vanderploeg Photography

Picture this: It’s aJanuary dayin Traverse City, Michigan,where Jonna andSeanKelleher are visiting. Jonna, keeping up a running joke, mentions “myshop,” referencing adream space where she could curateher style of homedecor

Sean strayed from the usual joke. “Hesaid, ‘Whydon’t we try it?’”she remembers Things movedquickly afterthat— in April the two signed alease on asmall, first-floorspace inside Geneva’s BerryHouse. They got the keys May1and openedJune10after completely renovating thespace, addingnew flooring, amantel, afaux tinceiling and shiplap on the counter

“Wecan tell youwhatthe Berry House lookslikeat3 a.m.,”Kelleher says,laughing

TheCottage Geneva is amix of vintageand wholesale cottagecorehome decor.You’ll findamix of neutral everydayand seasonal goods,which this year includes warm florals,Halloween decor,velvet pumpkins and natural accentslikeacorns andmushrooms. Sean

makesbyhand all thefurniturefor sale in theshop, beautiful natural wood pieces rangingfromafull dining room set to console tables.

“It’s small butvery mighty,”Kelleher says of hershop. “It’s full,and fulloflove.”

Kelleher’s parentsbothpassed when shewas a teenager,and she remembersliving in 13 homes in a four-year span. None, however, felt like home.

When the twobought afixer-upperinGeneva four years ago and began renovating,theycustomized ittofeel cozy,warmand,mostofall,homey. “If Icould givethis feeling tosomeone else,thatwould fulfill me,”Keller recallsthinking. This became thefoundation of her shop:tocreate“our neutral cottagecore vision”that feels inviting and offers goods thatfitseamlesslyinto your home. “People saytheyfeel that,”she says.“It’s morethanI could ever have imagined.”

Aformer emergencyroom nurse, Kelleher feels proud to inspireCottage Geneva shopperswho have dreams beyond their current jobs. She says she’s met “somany people who have come in, who have dreams andwant to veer off.”

“It’s notalwaysaboutthe sale,” she notes. “It’s about the people.”

THE COTTAGE GENEVA

227S.Third St., Geneva (Berry House) 847-409-5834

TheCottage Geneva (Facebook) @thecottagegeneva (Instagram) www.thecottagegeneva.com

‘Customer service is

Find your dream home with Diane Anderson and her team of Realtors

By Chris Walker | Photo provided by Diane Anderson

Diane Anderson has called Batavia her home for more than 25 years. Given her knowledge of the area and extensive experience, today she can unlock the door to your dream home through the Diane Anderson Baird & Warner team

“When I sit at a meeting with my team, we talk about customer service and that it’s No. 1,” she says. “Customer service is everything. No 2 is we support each other and all work together, and No 3, we are all big on giving back so we do a lot of philanthropic work. We’re always volunteering and giving back to the community.”

Anderson loves getting involved within the community because she loves living here, and for the past dozen years she’s been committed to helping others find or sell a home while making it as stress-free as possible.

“We love the Western suburbs so of course we want people to be happy, and it’s such a great place to live,” she says “We will hold your hand through every transaction and make sure you are happy. Our top goal is to make our clients happy and satisfied with the entire

process."

Jumping into this business in 2008 wasn’t an ideal time, but Anderson isn’t the type of person to back away from a challenge. Whether the industry is booming or struggling, Anderson recognizes people still need to find and sell homes, and she and her team are there to help them

“There were so many foreclosures and a lot of short sales so I did a lot of knocking on doors, whatever I could to get the business started,” she says “I learned the hard way, because business was kind of stagnant.”

She quickly became an excellent Realtor.

“I built my business by working very hard,” she notes. “It got me to No. 4 in my office and as one of the top 100 agents in our company.”

Anderson’s husband, Mark, has been a general contractor for 35 years, so his knowledge of home building, inspections and negotiating have all helped her business grow Their son, Brian, spent three years working for the

agency before joining the U.S. Marine Corps. He is now a captain in Marine Corps Reserve and back working for his mom.

“When Brian was away at training, my husband got his license to help me and he’s added a lot,” she says “And in the last two years my niece Kelly (Realmuto) and my nephew Kyle (Patenaude) got their licenses, and we also have another new team member, Bobbi (Miller).”

Whether your family is growing and you need a bigger home, or you’re empty-nesting and and considering downsizing, the Diane Anderson team is ready to work with you in your search or sale

“We love being Realtors and making people’s dreams come true,” she says "We love helping people get to their next adventure in life! We make it easier!"

630-373-1793

https://dianeanderson.bairdwarner.com

r

Meagan is the Senior Landscape Designer at WascoNursery in St.Charles. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Strangely, fall outweighs spring as my favorite season. While I love that spring brings anticipation, flowers and relief from cold weather, fall is a culmination of all of my hard work in the garden. New plants that were planted are starting to come of their own. Old plants are starting to shine with berries or fall color Evergreens are preparing for their time to work in the winter landscape. The mornings are crisp, but the days are warm. Though I don’t like it getting dark earlier, the sunsets are magnificent due to the dust and pollen in the air (sorry if you have allergies!). I’m also a huge football fan, so I love my weekends free from gardening chores so I can watch the Bears.

Fall is also a GREAT time to plant if you haven’t gotten to all of your wish list over the summer The cooler temperatures and warm soil cater to plants establishing roots. It doesn’t matter what the top of the plant looks like, but the roots are growing like crazy still and establishing the plant “behind the scenes.” Usually you can plant trees and shrubs until the ground is frozen (December/January).

I think my favorite part of fall is the colors. When designing, I make a conscious effort to plan for fall colors as well as all of the spring excitement and fun flowers When I plan for a serviceberry, it’s not just because it blooms in April but because it also has an amazing fall color that shines in a landscape. Ornamental grasses really earn their keep in October when their flowers (inflorescences) are gently swaying in the wind. I always locate prairie dropseed and other grasses where the setting sun can shine through them, causing them to glow in the evenings. Shrubs like chokeberry, burning bush, oakleaf hydrangea, witch hazel, fothergilla, and even forsythia and lilac have dark red, orange and burgundy fall colors that last well into the colder

months. Paired with grasses and late blooming perennials like asters and sedum, these shrubs extend the colors of the seasons.

Of course, we all know the fall color winners amongst the trees. Red maples, oaks and sugar maples are usually the standouts in the area. But have you noticed the hackberry fall color? A bright, lemon yellow that is clean and glows in the sun. Hackberries are wonderful, tough shade trees that don’t get much press, but the fall color alone is worth looking into them.

Katsura trees are a beautiful collector’s tree that has tiny heart-shaped leaves in colors from yellow to pink in fall. That’s not even the cool part when the leaves start to fall, the tree emits a fragrance that smells like warm sugar. A sugary smelling molecule maltol is responsible for the caramel smell as the leaves fall. I located my young katsura near the front door so I could catch the smell on the fall breeze

‘Golden Raindrops’ crab graces us with fragrant white flowers in May but also rewards with bright yellow fruit in fall. And it doesn’t stop there: The leaves turn orange, purple and yellow, adding to the fall show. The fruit stays on all winter until the birds clean it off in late winter (which keeps them from being messy) The Korean maples are a favorite here at Wasco Nursery ‘Northwinds,’ ‘Arctic Jade’ and ‘Ice Dragon’ are all extremely hardy maples (more so than their Japanese counterparts) that have red or orange spring color when they first leaf out, then turn green in the summer with tips of orange. But fall is when they really shine. They truly look like a giant flame deep reds, oranges, yellows that glow in the sun and stop traffic.

Think about adding some plants to your garden that reward you in fall. It’s not all about flowers and spring. I’ll take the smells and sights of fall any day as well as a winning Bears season (which isn’t as often as my garden looking good …).

Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

675S.River St., Batavia 630-940-8987

www.revelry675.com

FromJim Carrey to weddings in Batavia, Shuki Moran is dedicatedtoputting on memorable, seamless events. Oneof the most fundamental characteristics of human interaction is gathering.

Moran, who has spent the bulk of his career as an eventsplanner,owns and recently opened Revelry675,a neweventsvenue on the banksofthe Fox Riverin

Batavia

“I startedasacateringmanager in LosAngeles,”he says.“When Istarted my eventscompany, Igot acall from JennyMcCarthyand Jim Carrey,together,and Idid aChristmas partyfor them. Ithink thatput me on the map.”After yearsofplanning lavish soirees for arash of celebrities, Moran realized he wanted more freedom and choiceinhis work

“Venues have rules, and youcan’t change them,

especially in Los Angeles,” Moran says. “I always had a dream that I would open my own space, and then I moved to Geneva from California. I didn’t know anybody, but I started working here as an event planner. I love this area; I love that everybody knows everybody, and everyone is family.”

Moran began searching for a location that fit for his vision. “Right before COVID, I started looking and one of the places

A CLASSY BLACK, WHITE AND GOLD COLOR SCHEME LENDS ITSELF TO ELEGANT EVENTS

By Kelley White Photos taken by Lynette McCarthy Photography, provided by Revelry 675

I found was the VFW,” says Moran. “I started working with the chief of the VFW there and he was the sweetest person we worked out a deal.” A friend told Moran he was out of his mind, investing in a fixer-upper, but Moran was determined to see it through.

“The building used to be very dated,” says Moran. “It was old, brown and all the windows were like sliding doors. The front lobby was all black and the glass was

either cracked or foggy.”

Moran reinvented the entire structure, top to bottom. “I changed everything, I took down all the sliding doors and changed them to big, 6-by-6 windows to create a more modern look,” he notes. “It used to look like a hangar, and I did not want a hangar look. I wanted more elegance and sophistication. I did some patch-up on the wood and I framed the windows with black and painted the building a creamy white so it’s classier and more elegant.”

The black, white and gold color scheme is simple and packs a stylish punch. “I wanted the outdoors to reflect the indoors so when they see it, they get an idea of the interior design,” says Moran. “The front of the building was all cement on the inside of the

entryway, so I ripped it out and put in a garden. We changed the roof to black and the parking lot was falling apart, so I had a company fix it. High heels would not have worked in the old parking lot.”

Revelry 675 has become a hot spot for a host of different events around town “I don’t want to do just weddings, I want to open it to shows and at some point, I hope to do my own events,”

Moran says “I’m hoping to eventually put on a Christmas party for the community. Next year, I would like to do a Halloween party.”

Moran gives his clients the chance to enjoy their events to the fullest. “That’s the beauty about it, when you can see people so happy, so appreciative and having such fun,” he says “It’s everything.”

SECOND NATURE

AN

FOR THE OUTDOORS COMES NATURALLY FOR JEAN LARSON AND HER SHOP, THE WINDING DEERPATH

By Louise Treeny | Photos provided by the Winding Deerpath

At the Winding Deerpath, the door is always open, both literally and figuratively Jean Larson’s nature-inspired gift and decor shop started in 2019 with five artisans. Now, a location change and pandemic later, the shop hosts about 30 artists’ wares, all with ties to nature.

“It’s really a unique shop. She’s got a wonderful concept,” says Jennifer Echert, founder of BerkanaWay and one of the original five artisans. Her line of BerkanaKare skincare products can be found at the Winding Deerpath.

Larson and her family her parents and siblings, and now her husband and children have fostered a lifelong appreciation for nature. A Sycamore native, Larson remembers walking a path that they referred to as the “winding deer path,” which inspired the name of her store later in life.

“I want people to be able to bring nature into their home,” she says

Located off Geneva’s Third Street and often letting in a gentle breeze from the outdoors, the Winding Deerpath changes its offerings seasonally There’s always something new, including nature photography, woodworking, paintings, ceramics, natural products like coffee and tea, handmade jewelry, home decor and florals.

Larson creates the wreaths and arrangements herself, a skill she honed over 15 years as a florist.

Dan Armentrout is a painter who sells originals and prints

at the shop. He appreciates Larson’s eye for bringing in “things that make people feel ‘wow,’” he says

Armentrout creates his paintings on a variety of canvas sizes with the goal of making art accessible for everyone. That’s a goal of Larson’s for the shop you can find a gift or item for your home at virtually any price point. The store is a true destination, especially as the holidays approach.

Another goal is to add in classes and demonstrations. Artists’ techniques, environmental topics and Native American history are all on the table; stay tuned on the company’s social media for dates starting in early 2023

As you browse the Winding Deerpath, you’ll notice short bios of every artist, most of whom are local. “I like that she’s constantly looking for new artists to support,” Echert says

Larson is knowledgeable about her vendors and thankful for the teamwork of her employees, who come together to appreciate the variety of flora and fauna available to us through nature. “We care about each other,” she says “I just really love this shop.”

WINDING

316 Franklin St., Geneva 630-618-7608 www.windingdeerpath.com

 LITTLE RED

21 S. Third St., Geneva 630-402-0072

www.littleredbarndoor.com

FARMHOUSE FINDSfashionable

LITTLE RED BARN DOOR EXPANDS TO 1,800 SQUARE FEET OF CURATED HOME OFDDEECOR ON THIRD STREET

By Louise Treeny | Photos by Jennifer Kaye Photography

Amural on the walls of Little Red Barn Door tells you exactly what you’ll find when you step through those Third Street doors.

“Where beautiful things come together,” it reads. The shop’s motto is a fitting one; Little Red Barn Door is full of curated decor, gifts and seasonal accessories, displayed in a way that makes you think you’re stepping into the house of your dreams.

The journey to the new 1,800-square-foot haven started with owner Sylvia Torres’ decision to redecorate her house. “I’ve always been more creative than anything,” she says, noting an affection for color and the rustic farmhouse style.

Her home renovation quickly moved to an online sales platform and then, unexpectedly, to a space in the Berry House. At the time, she was working in accounting for her family’s steel business, a job she had done for 20 years, but it was time to take a leap to a new, artistic endeavor. “It just kind of happened,” Torres remembers. The store opened in December

2017, just in time for Geneva’s annual Christmas Walk.

Little Red Barn Door, which sells mainly rustic farmhouse goods, accessories and more, prioritizes the customer experience.

“It’s very important to me to make sure customers are happy,” Torres says Whether you spend $1 or $1 million, she says, Torres and her staff make it a priority to treat customers how they’d want to be treated. “It means a lot to me.”

The new space (where Veiled in Elegance had been) is connected via a hallway to a new location for Little Barn Baby, a sister store for boutique baby clothes and toys.

“We love our space here,” Torres notes.

Besides the mural, which was painted by local artist Emily Velazquez, shoppers will find white walls, dark ceilings and exposed brick. The clean, inviting space houses carefully collected beautiful items for the home, including fall seasonal items like

gnomes, pumpkins and decorative florals. Inventory is constantly coming in and changing, so there’s always something new to discover.

For those looking to keep up with the trends, Torres has her eye on earthy, moody colors this season, even for those decorative pumpkins. A mix of modern and rustic farmhouse elements are currently influencing her style as well.

Mark your calendar for Nov. 3-5, where loyalty customers can get a warehouse preview of this year’s holiday merchandise ahead of its in-store arrival. Beautiful things will surely be coming together this holiday season!

 LITTLE RED BARN DOOR 21 S. Third St., Geneva 630-402-0072 www.littleredbarndoor.com

By Diane Krieger Spivak |Photosprovided by Wasco Nursery

Ready or not, here come thecrisp daysoffall.

Setthe tone forthe season with a front porch thatinspiresthe mood in style.It’seasier than youmight think, thankstolocal experts’tips on how to get the look.

First, don’t assume you’re stuck with orange when it comes to pumpkins.

“Thereare alot of reallyunique heirloom varietiesofpumpkinsand gourds thatwegrow,” says Matt Zerby, president of longtime local garden staple WascoNursery & Garden Center.Options include white, tanand bluish green. “Theyallow forthatfall look without being the traditional orange, if orange fights with the colorofyour front door.”

Wreaths areanother way toadd some color. “Wecommonly think of wreaths forChristmas or winter,but doingafall wreath, like grapevine with bittersweet vine mixed in or doing cut hydrangeastems adds a nicefall element,”adds Zerby, who recommends the paniclehydrangea, whichcan be dried and savedfor winter use.

Mums areafall staple, especially the multicolored, trendy confettimums.

“They’re an easy plant to decorate with thatpeople don’t have to think about,”Zerbysays.

Zerbyalsorecommends mini straw bales forafront porchsetting. At about half the sizeofaregular bale, they’re greatfor stacking. “A full size is oftentoo big or out of scale fora porch,”henotes. “Withthe heirloom pumpkins and mums, theywork really well.”

Cornstalksare always agreat fall addition by the side of thefront door, or wrapped around aporch railing

or column. “Another thing that people often overlook is hanging baskets,” says Zerby. “This time of year, they’re starting to look a little tired, but mums in hanging baskets are another set-it-and-forget-it thing. Just hang it on the hook and there you go.”

Other fall elements are annuals like cold-tolerant decorative cabbages and kale, ornamental peppers and grasses and fall perennials like aster, pink turtlehead and coral bells.

To add to the mood, include small LED strip lights in your porch display. “Whether it’s in a fall planter

or around your door, it’s a neat way to add a light element,” Zerby says. “They’re inexpensive, battery powered and DIY-friendly so you don’t have to worry about wiring.”

Red Hive Market, in Batavia, offers more than 3,000 feet of artisan-made and curated items, particularly vintage. “One thing that is fun about a front porch is that you can incorporate those things in addition to plants,” says owner Bridget Johnson, who recently expanded her space. “A vintage bicycle is a great addition, especially if there’s a basket on the front to

add a mum or some silk flowers You can also add fun signs that are fall- or spooky-geared for Halloween.”

Johnson encourages thinking creatively “Vintage chairs are wonderful. Tie on a fun wreath or add a sign. Sit an oversized chalkboard by the front door or hang a smaller version from the door That way you can change out the message. Add some florals to the frame.

“Don’t discount the fun of adding a little end table to your porch, even a really chippy one or a rusty ladder,” she continues. “Have fun with it!”

SLEEK FLOORS & MORE

Garage Experts of Kane County specializes in epoxy floor coatings and clean, organized garages

By Chris Walker | Photos provided by Garage Experts

As a true family man, Eric Lyon is devoted to his wife and twins.

As the owner of Garage Experts of Kane County, he thanks his mom for helping introduce him to the epoxy floor coatings that his company installs on residential garage floors.

“My mom bought a house and one of the things that sold her on it was the garage floor,” he says. “We’re able to transform what’s gross and dingy and make it all nice the garage is the most used in the house

and it’s undervalued, especially after COVID Nobody uses the front door anymore. They all come through the garage.”

Garage Experts of Kane County offers the residential epoxy floor coatings as well as commercial and industrial strength epoxy and polyaspartic floor coatings.

Lyon and his team can also customize a garage cabinet system to help create an uncluttered, clean and organized garage. “You no longer have to track stuff in and out of the house from the garage,” he says “It’s so easy to keep clean.”

Since Garage Experts of Kane County is part of a national franchise, Lyon has access to great resources across the country, which has helped him grow tremendously in less than two full years of business. He’s already received a Platinum badge, which is only awarded to locations that rank highly for the number of installations completed with high customer satisfaction. Lyon’s business is among the top 20% of all Garage Experts locations nationwide.

“Things are going great, but they can always be better,” he says “We’re grateful for what we have and it’s always continual growth and trying to better

ourselves. Garage Experts was a great franchise to go with. We have the experience of 100 different owners across the country and no two garage floors are going to be the same, so they’ve given us a lot of great tools to lead the industry.”

The impact of the pandemic led Lyon to research how many people wanted epoxy floor coatings and then start his own business. He previously served as president of operations for a group of restaurants.

“I was at a golf outing and one of the guys said he left his company after 30 years and then I read a newspaper article about being your own boss,” he says “I started looking at different things I could do as my livelihood was being crushed, and the fact that there are no nights or working weekends struck a chord with me.”

It means more time to be a family man who also can make your home a better place to live in, thanks to his company’s flooring and organization products and services.



211 S. Lincolnway St., North Aurora 630-296-8470 www.vintagemarketil.com

Shopping PURPOSE with

“Save a forest, starve a landfill” with repurposed furnishings at The Vintage Marketplace Co.

By Louise Treeny | Photos provided by The Vintage Marketplace Co

Look up “upcycle” online, and you’ll see the following definition on Dictionary. com: “to produce something that is often better than the original.”

The Vintage Marketplace Co takes it a step further, upcycling and repurposing goods with excellent customer service to boot. These serve as statement pieces in your home, cover a range of eras and are better for the environment than buying new.

“We start with good bones,” Mike Gyuricza says He and his wife, Stacy, own the store. “By shopping that, you shop with purpose. Save a forest, starve a landfill.”

Take, for example, a dresser that Gyuricza recently repurposed. The dresser’s wood was more than 400 years old, and after some TLC, Gyuricza expects it to last another 400

That’s “quality and craftsmanship you can’t find anymore,” says Gyuricza, who worked for many years in remodeling and home renovation before The Vintage Marketplace Co

The North Aurora store offers a mix of vintage and wholesale items. More than 60 vendors sell their wares, which range from signage to shelves to home decor and more. Gyuricza

describes the space as a “home furnishing store, but not what you’d expect.” On any given day, you might discover a collection of 100-year-old beer steins or a vintage bubble wall, originally from a museum and equipped with LED lighting. “We like different. I like eclectic,” he notes.

Whether your design style skews modern farmhouse, cottagecore, midcentury modern, Gothic, art deco or modern, there’s something available for you at the 12,000-square-foot space. Midcentury modern fans will be thrilled to discover Jens Risom end tables, Broyhill dining sets and Laurel lamps at great prices.

“We really are true vintage,” Gyuricza says This year The Vintage Marketplace Co redesigned its logo, which now emphasizes a teal V and gold M surrounded by concentric gold circles. The rippling circles represent the eras in time that the store’s inventory represents. The logo is a “modern take on a classic feel,” Gyuricza says, which aptly sums up The Vintage Marketplace Co.’s mission as a whole.

Above all, however, Mike and Stacy prioritize the customer experience.

“I take a lot of pride in delivering over the top from a customer service standpoint,” he says “Our service is like no other.”

Home Is Where the Hearth Is

Visit our show room to see over 40 burning models on display. See a wide selection of electric, gas, and wood fireplaces designed to enhance the warmth and beauty of your home. You’ll also find a full line of mantels, fireplace screens, and hearth accessories to complete the picture.

This month Iheaded to Shima’sSushi in Wasco! Ifound Japanese cuisine that is tasty and takes you to East Asia.

To start Ihad the beef and asparagus appetizer,which is an amazingly steamed asparagus that is wrapped in thinly sliced beef with aspecial house-made sauce. This is broiled to perfection. It is light yet has that zing.

Next Ihad the Campton Hill roll bringing it back to the hometown with some local flair as they say! This roll is smoothand tasty.It almost seems like anice seafood boil on the lake. With crab sticks, tempura shrimp, tuna, topped with

mango, avocado and masago, this roll keepsyou healthy!

Lastly,the chicken teriyaki brought home that extra protein that balanced the diet moreso. The chicken is adorned in aspecial, mildly spicy but flavorful making this tangy but slightly sweet and flavorful sauce. Isaved my waistline by holding on therice, but Ijumped right in on that kicked-up chicken that just takes your taste buds to new heights of delicious!

 Dr.Tarun Mullickisaspecialist trainedatJohnsHopkinsand ClevelandClinicinGastroenterology andEndoscopybasedinGeneva. Connectwithhimat www.mullickmd. com orbyphoneat630-232-2025.

WITH DR. TARUN MULLICK

Ask the doctor

It is my honor and privilege to serve the community and readership of this publication. Our practice’sfocus is to carefor patients, to help them and tailor their careindividually with current therapies.

Q: Do youoffer telehealth?Many practicesdon’t?What do youthink about that?

A: Yes, we offer telehealth. This means you can get treatment without leaving your home. We will only bring you in for necessary tests, and you can choose locations away from hospitals. It’s safer to go to smaller practices and centers away likeours. In general, it appears telehealth is heretostay for years to come. It presents an alternative. And, for those, who don’tlike waits —wecall you. Thus, you can continue to do whatever you need to in the meanwhile.

Q: What is the new age to screen for colon cancer?

A: The guidelines for men and women to get screened with a colonoscopy is now at age 45 rather than 50.

Q: My gynecologist is allI see. Ionly need Pap smears, right?

A: As well, you should get amammogram and acolonoscopy for breast and colon cancer screening.

Q: Isn’tCologuardenough?

A: Cologuardisfor late-stage growths. Colon cancer prevention is best done prior to late stage. That is why theguidelines is still for colonoscopies to start at 45 years old.

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DearDr. Mullick, My family never had polyps or cancer Do Ireally need acolonoscopy? Jane

DearJane: Great question. Colon cancercan affect anyone, regardlessof family history. Everyone overage 45 should get acolonoscopy. If you have family history you should startatage 40 or 10 to 15 years before the youngest relative with aproblem. Screening helps reduce risk.

Dr. Mullick, I’ve got bloating and gas.Sometimes Ihave diarrhea or nausea after Ieat. Could Ihave food allergies?

My doctor said it’s IBS (irritable bowel). Kristen

DearKristen: Yes, food intolerances to lactose, sucrose and fructose are common, so you may need to avoid those. We have tests in the office for that.The symptoms of IBS and food allergies are often similar, so testing for food allergies is reasonable. We can test for that, too. We have helped many patients diagnosed with food allergies,soit’s notall IBS.

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By Chris Walker |Photos by Andrea Boetticher

Andrea Boetticher turned her grandfatherintoa chubby, reallycutebear

If the owner and baker of Ferdie’s Cabin had the powertodothat, just think ofthe delicious treats she can createfor you this fall.

She named her mobile bakery afterher late grandfatherFernando (nicknamed Ferdie),who owned an icecreamtruck in Scotland.Ferdie became abeloved figurefor local kids, who came running when theyheardthe bell. He taught Boetticher tonotonly work hardbut to pursueyour dreams and love life.

Youmight think you’re dreaming when you dig intoStuffedS’mores, the signatureitem in Ferdie’s Cabin

among cookie bars, hand pies, marshmallowpops and whoopie pies. In between bites, there’sOak Park based Whirlwind Coffee as well as hot apple cider,hot chocolate and freshly squeezed lemonade to wash down the deliciousness.

Everything within the comfy confinesof Ferdie’s Cabin is made from scratch and bakeddaily

“I’ve been ahobbybaker formywhole adultlifeand Ihad this idea fora marshmallowfood truck back in 2015, so Ijustkindofnoodled on the idea while workingfulltime,”she says.“I come from corporateevent planning and then COVID happened and pretty much everything stopped, so it was the perfect time to take aleap. …I just

TRUCK

decided to go for it.”

Before you can dig into the desserts, though, first you need to find the truck. Check www.ferdiescabin.com to find out where it’s headed and also to see cartoon drawings of Ferdie as a beloved bear (They were designed by local artist Emily Velazquez, a Batavia Boardwalk Shops alum.)

“Seeing their eyes light up definitely perks me up,” she says. “I have a calendar on the website that I keep up to date. We’ll have some pop-ups and I’m still working on developing some

recurring places.”

You certainly can’t miss the Ferdie’s Cabin truck, which appears as if it came right out of the forest.

“The whole business is an opportunity to kind of be different and I love camping and the outdoors, and the feel of the Pacific Northwest,” she says “I put that into the brand. It’s geared toward the idea of coziness. My love is not only for baking, but in fun experiences, and I try to put that in everything I do.”

Artist

OF THE MO NTH

JEREMY FOY

The Tri-Cities are booming with arts and artists perhaps nowhere more vibrantly than Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which hosts events, galleries and up to 25 artists in residence. Each month, Kane County Magazine and Water Street Studios are partnering to highlight artists and their work.

Just a year after graduating with his master’s degree in fine arts at Northern Illinois University, Jeremy Foy began at Water Street Studios as its ceramics instructor

Fast-forward another two years, and in 2019 he became a resident artist as well. Foy creates and instructs fellow artists in ceramics, describing his method as “guided but not controlled, providing an opportunity of chance to complete (my) aesthetic.”

Foy’s work began at an early age “I always wanted to make,” he says Starting with blocks and Legos, then expanding to dorm room furniture in college, his work now ranges from large vases to abstract sculptures. According to his website, his love of sports factors into his artistic exploration of repetition, writing, “He relates his concept of practice into one cohesive body of work.”

Teaching provides fulfillment to his belief that every artist needs art. “I enjoy working with and teaching others who share that same need,” he notes. “Different than graduate school where I made a lot of multiples, teaching has allowed me to come back to concentrate on individual forms. I am excited to bring both together in a new body of work.”

In addition to his instruction at Water Street, he is also an adjunct professor at Rock Valley College, Kishwaukee College and McHenry County College.

“Being hands-on promotes problem solving and innovation,” he says, citing everything from accessibility of buildings to menu design. “We can treat anything as an artform.”

TAKING ANEW LOOK AT THEPAST

Who arethe Native American tribes with ties to this part of the state? This question isn’t easilyanswered, butthatisn’t stopping the staff of alocal museum from asking questions and writing newchaptersof the area’s diversehistory.

By MelissaRubalcaba Riske|PhotosbyHannah Hoffmeister

For some of us,theyare wordswe’ve learnedhow to pronounce, names of places. In St.Charles there’s Pottawatomie Park,adjacent to the Fox River. Foxwas the name of atribe, as wasPotawatomi. Therewas Chief Waubonsee, ChiefShabbonaand atribe called Ottawa

Thenames of NativeAmerican tribes and their leadershavebecome the names of schools, cities and parks, butthere is agap in the history and understanding of thepeople to whom the names belong.

AccordingtoKane Countyhistory,European settlersbegan arriving in the early 1800s.

Accordingtothe St.Charles History Museum, “In 1833 treatiesweresigned with Indigenous Indian tribes which opened the Fox RiverValley

forhomesteading. In 1834 settlersstarted arriving atwhatisnowSt. Charles.”

Historical records stateasEuropean settlersarrived and built homes, theyforced NativeAmerican tribes to move west.

Names and ahandful ofartifactsremain, but thatdoesn’t have tobethe end ofthe story.Institutions likethe Geneva History Museum have asked stafftogobeyond the limitsofthe historybooksand reach outto descendantsofthose tribes thatwereknown to have lived in northern Illinois.

“One ofthe mainfocuses ofthe museum is notonlyrecognizing the NativeAmericans but understanding diversityasawhole and expanding our stories,”Terry Emma, executivedirector of the Geneva History Museum, says.

Emma and her staffhave recently completed aLand Acknowledgement, which Northwestern Universitydefines online as a“statement recognizing Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards ofthe land andthe enduring relationship between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.” Yearning for more, her staffdecided todig deeper than a statement tohelp sharethe storiesofNativeAmericans.

Today, the museum has on displayafew artifacts, mainly

arrowheads. Astaffmember learned about the tribe P Band Potawatomi thatresides in Kansas. In September spokewithmembersofthe tribeand saysitseems the descendantsofsomeofthe Indigenous Potawatomi who lived in the Tri-Cities area

Emma saysshe opened the conversationadmitting she really knowmuchofthe history,but shewanted tolearn.

“It was agreat conversation. Theyweresohappytoh from us and weareeager tolearn from each other,” Emma says.“Wearelooking forwardtocollaboratingbecause (the museum)donothave the right stories. Itold them want thattochange. Wewant toknowthe stories and them appropriately.”

NativeAmerican cultureisnotsomething thatonly existsinhistorybooks. “Theyarestill here. Theyares celebratingtraditions,”Emma says.

Emma saysmembersofthe Prairie BandPotawatomi planning tovisit themuseum laterthisyear, and even offeredtolookatthosefew arrowhead artifactsinthe museum’s collection to try to identify who created them.

“Weshared acouple ofresources, and wearestill in the very initial process ofour investigation,”Emma says, “but it’s off toagreat startand weareexcited for the potential.”

NEWFRIENDS &EVENTS

ND to attento atten

DISCOVER AHOME AWAY FROM HOME AT THE ADULTACTIVITY CENTER

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske |Photosprovided by St. Charles Park District

Pulla chair up to the table of just one of manydrop-in activities, and you’re sure to find new communityconnections at the St.Charles Park District’s Adult ActivityCenter

Locatedinside the Pottawatomie CommunityCenter along the banksof the tranquil Fox River, this dedicatedspace forages 50+provides three spacious, comfortable rooms for quiet reading, computerswith internet access and a placetoplaycards,watch movies or join abilliards game.

“Weare open sevendaysaweek,”saysLynne Yuill, supervisor forthe AdultActivityCenter.“When the weatherisnice,visitorsenjoy taking ashort stroll through the NativePlant Garden to see what’sin bloom.”

It’s become agreat placefor newfriendships to blossom too, Yuilladds. She regularly meetspeople

who have recently retired or just movedintothe Fox Valley area and arelooking to connect with others who sharesimilar interests. Often, she makes a great match, whether it be quilting, cardgames, lunchesout or daytrips

“The chances of meeting someone neware pretty good,”Yuill says.

Whilemostmemberscome from St.Charles,about 40% arefromthe neighboringtowns of Geneva, Elburn, Batavia, SouthElgin and Campton Hills.

All current and prospectivemembers arewelcome to attend an Open House on Monday, Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2p.m. There’ssomething foreveryone! Alert minds, healthybodies, energized spirits—come and see whatthe AdultActivityCenter is all about. Enjoygiveaways and light refreshments, too.

With areasonably priced annual membership of only $10for residentsand $15 fornonresidents, a varietyofmeaningfuland funleisuretime activities await. Whether it’s socializing with others on atrip to an area attraction, participating in ahealth and fitness class or attendinganeducational program, stayingactiveand engaged in acommunitylifestyle can mean the difference between aging successfully or prematurely.

Membership includes discountsfor specific programs and events,aquarterly newsletter

featuring upcoming activities, free or low-cost weekly drop-in programs and access to an expansive Little Library

“The shelves are brimming with a great collection of books,” says Yuill.

The fall lineup features some returning guest speakers and events, but Yuill is excited for a few new ones. Soup, Salad & Scrabble takes place Oct. 14 and Nov.

11. Try your best to get a triple word score while socializing with others over a light lunch. Hike with a naturalist on Oct. 15 through the trails of Hickory Knolls Natural Area to discover native plants and the year-round restoration efforts to sustain this natural habitat

Let’s Do Lunch is always a favorite, with groups checking out local restaurants’ cuisine each month. Participants pay for their own lunch, but an advance registration guarantees you a seat at the table with old and new friends.

Another popular program is the monthly volunteer sessions at the Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva

“There’s a job for every ability,” says

Yuill. “Mostly, we help sort and pack food items that will be distributed in the Fox Valley communities giving back to the community is rewarding.”

While many use the park district for its sports programs, preschool, art classes or special events, the District is dedicated to serving all ages. The Adult Activity Center originally opened in 2003 when the District added a two-story addition to Pottawatomie Community Center

Remember to reserve your tickets now for the unforgettable annual holiday Jingle Bell Bash on Dec. 2. New this year, the live entertainment, feasting, raffles, door prizes and cash bar will be held at the Speakeasy at the Arcada Theatre in downtown St Charles. You can skip the hassle of parking in the downtown area and sign up for free transportation to and from Pottawatomie Community Center

“The food is delicious and I’m excited to see everyone decked out in their holiday best, dancing in the festive Speakeasy,” Yuill says

Compete in an ‘easy as pie’ 5K race! Those with the fastest strides will win a savory pie…apple, pumpkin, cream, custard…the possibilities of pies are endless! This chip-timed course features terrain with gravel, grass and paved trails. Pre- and post-race snacks provided. Top finishers in each age group. Finisher awards to all participants.

Bird

(by Oct 14)

Oct

W ith the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the world at least momentarily focused on the transition of thethrone, Icould not help but find myself reflecting on British culture. Their rich history of stoicism, fortitude and calm in adversitywas captured in anow famous poster issued in 1939 prior to World WarII, which simply read “Keep Calm and Carry On.”What sound advice forinvestorstrudging through this bear market!

Investopedia defines abearmarket as “when amarketexperiences prolonged pricedeclines. It typically describes acondition in which securities prices fall 20%ormore from recent highsamid widespread pessimism and negativeinvestor sentiment.”Duringthe first half of this year severalmajor stock market indices were down morethan20%. In fact, the S&P 500sufferedthe worst startofa year through June in 52 years. Bonds, stockscounterpartand an asset class thatoften movesinthe oppositedirection have hadanequally discouraging starttothe year as their performancelargely has correlated. This hasmade forsome very grumpy investors.

Here’sthe good news.Overthe last 70 yearsbearmarkets have been relatively shortwhencompared to bull markets. In fact,according to The Capital Group the average bull market during thatperiod lasted 67 months and generateda265%return as compared to the average bear market having lasted only 13 months with a-33%return. Although these facts can be coldcomfortwhennervously logging in to viewyour account balance this year,itisimportant

to recognize that these market movements are normal and that they punctuate the realities of market risk.

It is also important that you and your financial advisor have candid discussion regarding your risk tolerance during both bear and bull markets. Finding the zone between losing sleep during down markets and having FOMO (fear of missing out) during aggressive market uptakes can be difficult. This becomes even harder if you try to do this on your own without experienced counsel. It is unfortunate when investors go it alone and become so nervous that they sell out of quality positions during a bear market locking in a loss in their portfolio

A final reflection. I entered the financial services industry in spring

1987 For those old enough to remember, on Oct. 19 of that year the world’s markets crashed. Known now as “Black Monday,” the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 508 points (-22.6%). A tough time to get into the business, to be sure I’ll never forget a conversation I had with a grizzled, gruff industry veteran. He must have sensed my angst and gruffly stated, “Tom, there are only two times when price matters The day you buy, and the day you sell. The rest is just noise.” He then turned and added, “By the way, only a fool would sell today.” Although the exact words he used would not be well-received in today’s politically correct culture, the underlying message is as true today as it was then.

Keep Calm and Carry On.

Investinginvolvesriskandyoumayincuraprofitorlossregardlessofstrategyselected. Diversificationandassetallocationdoesnotensureaprofitorprotectagainstaloss. Holdinginvestmentsforthelongtermdoesnotensureaprofitableoutcome.Future investmentperformancecannotbeguaranteed,andinvestmentyieldswillfluctuate withmarketconditions.Thisisnotarecommendationtopurchaseorsellthestocksof thecompaniesmentioned.Theinformationcontainedinthisreportdoesnotpurportto beacompletedescriptionofthesecurities,markets,ordevelopmentsreferredtointhis material.Theinformationhasbeenobtainedfromsourcesconsideredtobereliable,but wedonotguaranteethattheforegoingmaterialisaccurateorcomplete. Anyopinions arethoseofTomMcCartneyandnotnecessarilythoseofRaymondJames.Expressionsof opinionareasofthisdateandaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice.

 Tom McCartney istheFoundingPrincipalof MyAdvisor&Planner anda WealthManager SecuritiesandInvestment Advisory ServicesOffered ThroughRaymondJames FinancialServices, a RegisteredBroker/DealerandInvestment Adviser, Member FINRA/SIPC.MyAdvisor &Planner is independentlyownedandoperated.

Tom andhisteam can bereachedat info@ mapyourfuture.net, at 630-457-4068,oryou can visitthemat www.mapyourfuture.net.

HERE HETO RE HELP HE

LIVINGWELL CANCERRESOURCECENTER PROVIDES FREE,NECESSARY SERVICES TO CANCERPATIENTSAND THEIRFAMILIES

By KelleyWhite|Photo provided by Angela McCrum

Itgoes without saying cancer adversely affectsthe person diagnosed, as well as those closest to them.

In Kane County, youdon’t have to go through it alone. LivingWell Cancer Resource Center is therefor every individual involved with acancer diagnosis. ApartofNorthwestern Medicine, the organization offers assistancefor everyone including the patient, their caregiversand other family members. Themission statement is simple and all-encompassing: “LivingWell exists to provide compassionate carethat empowers, encourages, supports and offers hope to patientswithcancerand theirfamilies.”

As anonprofit, LivingWell Cancer Resource center depends exclusively on donations in order to sponsor what has growntoover100 programs and services in sevencounties of the Western suburbs. Every single one of these services is completely free of charge.

Thediverse range of programming

offers everything from stress relief to survivorship classes to artand much more, all recognizedasvital and necessary

LivingWell Cancer Resource Center encourages participationinits volunteer programs. Become an ambassador and manage informational booths at schools, churches or events. If youare acertified yoga instructor,bring your expertise to LivingWell by conducting yoga classes. Thepossibilities are endless. Touchtherapists—licensed estheticians, massage therapistsand reikipractitioners —are also needed as volunteers

Volunteering is essential foran organization thatrelies completely on the community.Ifyou areinterested in gettinginvolved,visit www livingwellcrc.org/get-involved/volunteer.



LIVINGWELLCANCER RESOURCE CENTER 442WilliamsburgAve., Geneva 630-933-7860 www.livingwellcrc.org

THIS ARTICLE IS SPONSORED BY:

STILL ON STATE STREET

Sparkling

State Street Jewelers marks 35 years, long-term commitment to Tri-Cities and fine jewelry

By Kelley White | Photos provided by State Street Jewelers

Apillar of the Geneva community since the ’80s, State Street Jewelers is excited to be celebrating a milestone anniversary this month.

“Our actual 35th anniversary was in 2020,” says manager Martha Sanchez. “We had been planning to do a bunch of activities then, which of course never panned out, but we ultimately decided to celebrate our big anniversary this year instead.”

State Street Jewelers will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Chamber the week of its anniversary followed by various weekend entertainment.

“The weekend after the 20th of October we will have some kind of celebration including games and prizes as well as some special pricing,” Sanchez notes. “We are also going to do a contest for who can find their oldest receipt from the store I’m hoping someone finds a really old one they can show us.”

The longtime jeweler, which provides fine and custom jewelry for everything from engagements to statement pieces, looks forward to celebrating its anniversary with the community in mind, having built its success on the foundation of community support. “We’re just really feeling appreciative of where we are at and the fact that we’ve been able to be a part of Geneva for all these years with the support of the community,” says Sanchez. “That support is what has made our business what it is and one of the things that’s close to our hearts is giving back to the community. We try to work with a lot of different charities, at the

festivals, and with as many fundraisers as we can. it’s just our way of saying thank you.”

Jewelers have played an integral role in the development of Geneva since the early 1900s.

“We started out in the middle of the block on State Street in a building that was built in 1915, and it was always a jewelry store from 1915 on with only four or five owners over the years,” says Sanchez. “In the ’50s it was Anderson Jewelers. In the ’80s we had British Import Jewelers on Third Street and Suburban Jewelers Service downtown. They ended up combining all three businesses where Anderson’s was, and it became State Street Jewelers in 1985 We are honored to continue the legacy of a jewelry store here on this block after all these years.”

State Street Jewelers looks forward to maintaining its model business dedicated to quality services and products for cherished customers. “It’s really special to us that we get to be able to be there for them, in good times and in sad times,” Sanchez says “We love our community, and we try to be an all-service store for people to shop and find that special gift for their loved ones.”

or the past nine years, the cityofElgin’s streetshave been crawling with zombies

... and forthe past twoyears

... the safest placetolie low wasathome. However, this year,weneed to uniteinorder to escape and destroy the zombies.

Forthe first time in nearly three years, on Oct. 22,NightmareonChicago Street will be taking place in downtownElgin. Theoutbreak of zombies will be from 6p.m.to11p.m., and only youcan defend yourself against the outbreak.

Youcan purchase your ticketsfor NightmareonChicago Street at www nightmareonchicagostreet.com, or you could purchase them at the gate.Downtown Elgin restaurantsand bars will be open and available to the public. Spookyvendorsand

By the Elgin Area Convention &VisitorsBureau

entertainerswillbea part of thefun

This year will also featureaspecial guest appearancebySvengoolie! Therewillbe twostages of live music, aDJstage, heartpounding excitementinthe Thunder Dome, aBizarreBazaar,end-of-times drinksand food creations,B-movie Boulevardand the best costumes this side of Halloween.

Theevent is forpeople aged 17 and older; however, anyone under the age of 17 who wouldliketotakepartinthe apocalypse mayjointhe defense if accompanied by aparent or guardian at all times. Costumes areencouraged but not mandatory to participate.

Want to makethisaweekend getaway? Stay at the QualityInn at 500Tollgate RoadinElgin foraspecial hotelblock dedicatedtothe event.

The Elgin area arts scene is one of the biggest hidden gems in the suburbs —following this itinerary ensures youwillvisit all of the must-see spots, including aself-guided public arts tour

By the Elgin Area Convention &VisitorsBureau

oh f egg t Tbi he art en u c es o ne s w l subu o low n h a y

Compiled by Hannah Hoffmeister

Aurora Downtown hostsSugarSkull Citytocelebrate Dayofthe Dead. You’llfind lots of cultural activities, food and more. (Oct 15-Nov. 6)

See“TheNightmare Before Christmas” movie at the Paramountfor just $1.

5World premiere alert: “BULL: A Love Story”debuts on this dayatthe Paramount’sCopley TheatreinAurora.

12 13

This daymarks Indigenous Peoples Day and ColumbusDay. Learnmoreon P. 36.

There’sanobvious answerto“What arewehavingfor dinner tonight?” It’s national meatloaf appreciation day.

From Frscarecrows om scarecrows totrick-or-treating, hertotrick-or-treating, here’swhat’shappening e’swhat’shappening inKane inCounty Kane County

SAT

hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com!

1CelebrateProstober at Obscurity Brewing &Craft Mead in Elburn.This Oktoberfest event includes acostume contest!

Halloween is less than aweekaway …doyou have your costume planned out?

This is “Thriller”! Catchfree performances from 7to10p.m. between Route38 and Hamilton Street in Geneva

Scarecrow Weekend includes 85 handmade scarecrows, live entertainment and moreinSt. Charles.

Bring your gardening glovestoProject Daffodil at Mt.St. Mary Park, where volunteersare needed to plant 5,000 daffodilswithRiver Corridor Foundation of St.Charles.

ReporttoElgin forNightmareon Chicago Street! Learn moreonP.44.

Trick-or-treat! BatFest in Batavia features games, amagician, a costumecontest —and,ofcourse,

Celebrating 35 Years!

Come and Celebrate With Us

We will have a prize wheel from Oct. 20th through Oct. 23rd We are also awarding a prize to the person who brings in the oldest receipt from our store!